Area:

Technical Writing

Sub-Area:

Employers:

Publishing firms including books, scientific and research journals, technical press, large newspapers, and wire services

Internet sites

Strategies & Information:

Take advanced technical writing courses.

Develop word processing and desktop publishing skills.

Area:

Law

Sub-Area:

Patent Law

Legislation and Lobbying

Employers:

Manufacturing firms

Research and development firms

Law firms

Private practice

Environmental agencies

Strategies & Information:

Obtain law degree to become an attorney.

Area:

Information Specialist/Technical Libraries

Sub-Area:

Employers:

Special libraries

Research organizations

Colleges and universities

Large manufacturing firms, especially chemicals and pharmaceuticals

Strategies & Information:

Obtain master's degree in library and information science.

Develop computer retrieval skills.

Join Special Libraries Association, Chemistry Division.

General Information and Strategies

Undergraduate degree sufficient for entry-level positions such as lab coordinator, research assistant, product testing or analysis, technical sales, or service representative.

Maintain high grade point average and secure strong recommendations for graduate school.

Master's degree sufficient for most applied research positions, industrial work, and some community college teaching.

Find research opportunities with professors and other experts in the field to gain experience.

Ph.D. degree required for university teaching and advanced positions in management and research and development. Postdoctoral experience is preferred for research positions in industry, universities, and government.

Advanced degrees help speed career advancement.

Develop strong computer, mathematics, and science skills/knowledge.

Obtain part-time, volunteer, co-op, internship, or summer experience.

Obtain practical experience using various laboratory equipment and high-tech scientific equipment and data.